Eye health kiosk at Fayette library 3.11.09

Ever wonder what it’s like to see the world through the eyes of a person with astigmatism, or with a cataract or other vision problem?

In interactive exhibit at Fayette’s Normal Memorial Library this month gives children the opportunity to experience various eye ailments and learn about eye health.

A favorite feature of the Wild About Eyes kiosk is the bowling ball drop. Pull a cord to lift a bowling ball, then let it drop onto a polycarbonate lens. The lens survives, demonstrating the value of quality eye protection goggles.

The display also includes a pushbutton game to match the protective eyewear with specific activities, plus an interactive computer game that teaches about eye health.

The kiosk is sponsored by Prevent Blindness Ohio. The display travels to libraries for one-month visits to teach youngsters about eye health and safety, and to connect the eye care mission with literacy.

The display is geared toward children between the ages of four and 10, but adults can learn from the information as well.

The four-sided kiosk was developed by Dayton’s Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, incorporating features from the Prevent Blindness Ohio’s Wise About Eyes 1,600 square foot traveling exhibit.

A special reading hour is scheduled during the library’s after-school program March 26 from 3 to 4 p.m. A guest reader will visit and eye health activities are planned.

Each child will receive a gift bag containing the book “Arthur’s Eyes,” assorted eye health literature, and a pair of safety goggles.